Concerns about the threat of a swine flu pandemic have led to a soar in the number of bookings for travel insurance. Insurance providers Multitrip.com have seen a 300% increase in bookings since cases of swine flu were first reported in Mexico.

These rises come as the first cases of swine flu have reached the UK. “What we’ve seen is that travellers are worried about losing their holiday or getting ill abroad, particularly in affected areas such as Mexico“ said Multitrip.com director Ciaran Mulligan. “With travellers concerned about their holiday arrangements and the current situation, they are more cautious and less willing to gamble by avoiding purchasing travel insurance.”

With concerns growing that the outbreak could stem into a global pandemic, tour operators are anxious about the impact on their revenues. Thomson, Thomas Cook and First Choice have all cancelled trips to Mexico. Many passengers have already cancelled holidays to Mexico and more are likely to follow. “Customers should contact their tour operators and listen to Government travel advice when deciding what to do next.” The swine flu situation is currently in flux with health officials and the travel industry unsure of where the disease will strike next. The industry is hoping that the current crisis will not be a repeat of the SARS outbreak which caused great problems for tourists travelling to affected regions.

Annual policies such as those offered by Multitrip.com will ensure that travellers are covered for the entire year. Travellers are being advised to purchase travel insurance as soon as they book their holiday to ensure they are fully covered abroad. Annual premiums start from as little as £21.99.